In his native Brazil, Neymar is being counted on to lead the South American nation to World Cup glory on home soil next year.

If he can score the kind of goal he did Saturday in the Confederations Cup opener, then Brazil's chances of claiming a record-extending sixth title will surely increase.

Neymar, hailed as the "modern successor" to Pele, netted with a stunning half volley in the third minute to help Brazil beat Japan 3-0 in Group A. Paulinho and Jo added the other goals in the second half.

"It all happened in a flash," Neymar said. "I connected full on and happily the ball found the target. I am very happy to score and help Brazil to achieve a victory."

The win, Brazil's second straight after a 3-0 victory against France this week in a friendly, might lift some of the gloom surrounding the national team.

Even after topping France, Brazil had won just two of its past seven matches and manager Luiz Felipe Scolari was being criticized for his less than free flowing style of play. Neymar wasn't immune to criticism, either.

"What mattered most was the result and this continued the tactical evolution of the team," Scolari said.

With all eyes on Brazil to see how the nation hosts the World Cup dress rehearsal, the build-up to the game, though, was marred by protests across the country.

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Thousands took to the streets to protest against an increase in public transportation costs and there was frustration about the lack of investment in health and education.

In Brasilia a road leading to the stadium this week was reportedly blocked by hundreds of people who were unhappy with the costs of staging the Confederations Cup and World Cup, and protests continued outside the stadium Saturday.

Preparations for the 2014 showpiece itself haven't been smooth.

Work to stadiums fell behind schedule and last month managers of the stadium in Salvador said human error was partly to blame for causing a tear in the roof.

On the eve of the Confederations Cup, FIFA president Sepp Blatter -- booed when introduced before the game -- downplayed concerns.

Kawashima denied Fred after good link up play with Neymar before Paulinho realistically settled the game in the 48th minute. Kawashima got a hand to his low shot but not enough of it to keep it out of the net.

Japan almost replied straight away but Shinji Okazaki was off target when supplied with a good cross from Hiroshi Kiyotake.

Neymar gave way to Lucas in the 74th minute because of a slight injury and Brazil made it three when Jo slotted home from Oscar's pass in injury time.

On Sunday, world and European champion Spain plays Uruguay in Group B and Mexico faces Italy in Group A.